Ankle pain is particularly common in people who run, jump and participate in sport, but it can affect anyone. A simple twist, awkward landing or fall can result in an ankle injury, while other problems develop gradually as activity levels increase.

Although many ankle injuries improve, an ankle that remains painful, stiff or unstable can continue to cause problems long after the initial injury.

Physiotherapy can help restore movement, strength and balance and guide your return to exercise and sport.

What Causes Ankle Pain?

Ankle pain can develop from an injury or from gradually increasing the amount of load placed through the ankle.

Common causes and contributors include:

* Ankle sprains

* Sporting injuries

* Running

* Jumping and landing

* Sudden increases in training

* Reduced ankle mobility

* Muscle weakness

* Balance deficits

* Achilles tendon pain

* Previous ankle injuries

One of the biggest concerns following an ankle sprain is returning to activity before the ankle has fully regained its strength, balance and confidence.

When Should You Get Ankle Pain Checked?

1. Your ankle is still swollen or stiff

Some swelling is common following an ankle injury, but persistent swelling or restricted movement can affect how you walk and move.

2.You keep rolling or spraining your ankle

Repeated ankle sprains can be a sign that the ankle has not fully regained its strength, balance or ability to respond to sudden movements.

3.You want to return to running or sport

Returning to sport involves more than simply being able to walk without pain. Your ankle may need to regain strength, balance, hopping and running capacity before returning to higher-level activity.

4.You are struggling to put weight through the ankle

Significant difficulty weight-bearing following an injury should be assessed appropriately, as some injuries may require further medical assessment or imaging.

What Happens During an Ankle Physiotherapy Assessment?

Your physiotherapist will discuss:

* How the injury occurred

* Pain and swelling

* Your ability to walk

* Previous ankle injuries

* Work and exercise demands

* Running and sporting requirements

* Your goals for recovery

The physical assessment may include ankle movement, strength, balance, calf capacity, hopping and other functional movements depending on your stage of recovery.

How Can Physiotherapy Help Ankle Pain?

Restoring Movement

Ankle mobility can sometimes become restricted following an injury. Rehabilitation can help restore appropriate movement and function.

Strength and Balance

Exercises can target the calf, ankle and lower-limb muscles while balance exercises can help improve confidence and control.

Gradual Return to Running and Sport

Your physiotherapist can develop a progression from walking and basic exercises through to running, jumping, changing direction and sport-specific movements.

Injury Prevention

Building strength, balance and load tolerance can be particularly important for people who have experienced previous ankle sprains.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an ankle sprain take to heal?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury. Being able to walk comfortably does not always mean the ankle has fully recovered for running or sport.

When can I return to sport after an ankle sprain?

Return to sport should be based on factors such as pain, swelling, movement, strength, balance and your ability to perform sport-specific movements rather than simply the number of days since the injury.

Can physiotherapy prevent ankle sprains from happening again?

Physiotherapy can help address factors such as strength, balance, mobility and confidence that may contribute to recurrent ankle sprains.

Take the First Step Towards Managing Your Ankle Pain

An ankle injury shouldn't necessarily mean being away from exercise or sport for longer than necessary. A structured rehabilitation program can help you progressively rebuild movement, strength and confidence.

At North Parramatta Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries, we provide evidence-informed assessment and rehabilitation for ankle pain throughout

Contact our friendly team today on:98902444 to book an appointment or book online to discuss how physiotherapy may help you return to the activities you enjoy.